Bold Forecast: Three Running Backs to Storm the First-Round Picks
The anticipation surrounding the 2025 NFL draft is palpable, with teams meticulously evaluating the upcoming talent pool in preparation for the big event. NFL draft analyst Daniel Jeremiah has recently stirred the pot with a bold forecast that could potentially reshape the landscape of the draft. For the first time since 2018, Jeremiah predicts that more than two running backs could be selected in the first round, a sight that has not been seen in years.
A Resurgence of Running Backs
In the 2024 NFL season, running backs experienced a resurgence in prominence on the field. Players like Saquon Barkley, Derrick Henry, James Cook, Bijan Robinson, and Jahmyr Gibbs showcased stellar performances, underscoring the value of top-tier running backs in the league. Saquon Barkley’s impressive 2,005 rushing yards in 16 games exemplified the impact a standout running back can have on a team’s success.
The Return of Three First-Round Running Backs
Daniel Jeremiah’s bold prediction for the 2025 draft revolves around the potential selection of three running backs in the first round, a feat that has been a rarity in recent years. The last time three running backs were chosen in the first round was during the 2018 draft, highlighting the significance of this forecast. Notably, two of the three running backs selected in 2018 were not part of an NFL team in 2024, emphasizing the dynamic nature of player careers in the league.
Meet the Top Running Back Prospects
According to Jeremiah’s projections, Ashton Jeanty, Omarion Hampton, and TreVeyon Henderson are poised to make waves as potential first-round picks in the 2025 draft. These standout prospects bring a mix of talent, accolades, and potential that make them prime candidates for early selection.
Ashton Jeanty, a Heisman Trophy runner-up in 2024, boasts an impressive track record with his exceptional rushing statistics. His standout performance, including 2,601 rushing yards on 344 carries, has positioned him as a formidable force on the field. Garnering accolades such as first-team All-American and Mountain West Player of the Year further solidify his status as a top prospect.
Omarion Hampton’s consistent dominance in the ACC, leading in rushing yards for consecutive seasons, showcases his reliability and skill set as a top-tier running back. With an impressive 3,164 rushing yards and 30 rushing touchdowns from 2023 to 2024, Hampton’s proven ability to deliver results underlines his potential as a first-round talent.
TreVeyon Henderson, fresh off a national championship victory with the Ohio State Buckeyes, brings a winning mentality and resilience to the table. Overcoming injuries throughout his career, Henderson has demonstrated his tenacity and skill, making him a coveted prospect in this year’s draft class.
Conclusion
The prospect of three running backs storming the first-round picks in the 2025 NFL draft introduces an exciting narrative to the upcoming event. With talents like Jeanty, Hampton, and Henderson poised to make their mark at the professional level, football enthusiasts eagerly await the unfolding of this bold forecast that could reshape the league’s running back landscape.
